Our kaimahi recently attended a wānanga that explored how we can enable a thriving food and fibre sector for rangatahi in Aotearoa New Zealand.   

Led by Muka Tangata Council member and advocate for mental wellbeing in the sector, Cheyenne Wilson, with the support of FarmStrong, kōrero from the wānanga will contribute to Cheyenne’s research as part of the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme.   

Cheyenne’s project aims to explore how the food and fibre sector in Aotearoa can better support rangatahi Māori. By identifying the barriers and opportunities within the industry, the goal is to create actionable strategies that enhance opportunities for young Māori ensuring that they thrive in the sector.   

Other attendees included rangatahi working in the sector or people working with rangatahi work across the food and fibre sector.   

We heard from rangatahi that the main things that they need to thrive in the food and fibre sector are:    

• Employment that provides a sense of belonging/being part of a work-whānau/community    

• Understanding the pathways and opportunities for career progression    

• Cultural respect so they can bring their whole self to work   

• Understanding the greater purpose and connection to the whenua.   

These insights will help us in our career pathways work – keep an eye on our website for progress.   

Insights from the wānanga also relate to our Entry Level qualifications development project. We heard about the mechanisms to support rangatahi through pastoral care while they transition into the world of work (managing money, transport, health and wellbeing), and understanding the various opportunities and pathways available to them.